Online Criminal Justice Degree

The Criminal justice system is a set of agencies and practices responsible for controlling crime, deterring criminals, and holding individuals accountable, who violate the law.

The United States has a dynamic criminal justice system that entails a number of occupations. Criminal laws vary according to the jurisdiction and state.

After graduating from high school, one of the most important decisions to make is choosing a college major. If you are intrigued by the developments in criminal law and enjoy working in a challenging situation, criminal justice can be a great major to pursue. Criminal justice is offered as an academic discipline at all levels of post-secondary education.

Probation Officers

An officer who investigates and reports on the conduct of offenders who are on probation

Their job usually entails:

Evaluating offenders to determine the best course of rehabilitation

Providing offenders with resources, such as job training

Testing offenders for drugs and offer substance-abuse counseling

Writing reports on the progress of offenders

Correctional Officers

Accountable for supervising people who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced

Their job will include:

Enforcing rules and keeping order within jails or prisons

Aiding in rehabilitation and counseling of offenders

Searching inmates for contraband items

Inspecting facilities to ensure that they meet standards

Reporting on inmate conduct

Prospects

The career outlook for criminal justice graduates is positive

The job market is growing each year

The chances of promotion are also bright

There are many reasons why pursuing criminal justice studies can be a suitable choice. Here are a few of them:

Studying criminal justice could prepare you for a number of occupations in this field. You could choose from various professions in the law enforcement sector, law courts, and even the FBI.

Due to increasing security needs at local, state, and national levels, the demand for security experts, police officials, criminologists, investigators, and other related professionals is expected to remain stable in the coming years.

A degree in criminal justice would enable you to learn about the American criminal justice system. You would develop a range of skills that can be applicable in various criminal justice careers.

What do you study in Criminal Justice?

To further your studies in the area of criminal justice and subsequently pursue a relevant career, it is imperative to acquire formal training and education. Since criminal justice is such a diverse and broad field, there are many study options that you can choose from.

Most colleges offer the following criminal justice programs:

Associate degree in criminal justice

Bachelor degree in criminal justice

Masters degree in criminal justice

Associate degree in criminal justice

This is a two-year undergraduate program. It is designed to prepare students for entry-level criminal justice careers. Many students are also pursuing associate degrees in this field to prepare for advanced education ahead.

The program will focus on fundamental concepts of the field. Students will learn about the criminal Justice system, its functions, departments and policies.

Here are some of the courses that may be covered in the program:

Criminal investigation

Criminal procedure

Community corrections

Administration of justice

Police management and law enforcement

Criminology and nature of crime

Associate degree in criminal justice requirements are:

Completion of general courses

Completion of core courses

60-90 credit hours

Completion of all assignments and projects

Bachelor degree in criminal justice

This is a four year program designed to prepare students for advanced careers in criminal justice. The program will help students learn about the development and philosophy of the US criminal justice systems. Students will examine different concepts related to the field. Alongside theoretical development, the program will also emphasize on skill development.

Here are some of the courses likely to be covered in the program:

Corrections in America

Criminology

Research methods in criminal justice

Ethics in criminal justice

Elementary statistics

Police administration

The juvenile justice system

Bachelor degree in criminal justice requirements are:

120 credit hours

Completion of general courses

Completion of core and specialization courses

Completion of class projects and assignments

Masters degree in criminal justice

This is a graduate-level program that aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills. Students must have a bachelor’s degree to qualify for enrollment in this program. The coursework of a master’s degree in criminal justice would include a number of courses that cover each aspect of criminal justice in detail.

Here are some of the courses likely to be covered:

Criminology

Victimology

Research methods

White-collar crime

Digital forensics

Security policies and procedures

Public emergency management

Doctorate degree in criminal justice

This is the highest level of qualification you can earn in the field of criminal justice. The program is designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge of crime in the society, justice administration techniques, crime control policies, and social science theories. Much of the coursework is research-oriented and focuses on research skill development. It can take around 4-8 years to complete the program, depending on which college you enroll in. The main components of the program include coursework, research and dissertation.

Here are a few of the courses covered in the program:

Introduction to statistics

Research methods

Criminological theory

Research design for casual inference

Criminal justice policy

Crime causation

Criminal justice certificate programs

Apart from the regular college degree programs available in CJ, students and working individuals can earn a certificate program in this field. This is a non-degree program that aims to equip students with career skills and knowledge.

An extra credential under your belt could improve employment prospects, prepare students for a career switch and also help criminal justice professionals advance in their careers. It is also possible to pursue criminal justice certificate programs online.

Accredited online criminal justice programs

A number of universities have started offering online degrees. The demand for online education has increased in recent years. In an online program, the curriculum is covered via videos, online lectures, classroom conferencing, and tutorials. Students can study from any location at any time of the day.

Benefits of online criminal justice degree?

There are many benefits associated with distance learning. This mode of learning is highly suitable for working individuals who do not have the time to enroll in on-campus classes. Other advantages of online learning are:

Low cost – Minimal traveling cost

Flexibility – Students can study at their own pace

Convenience – Students can study from the comfort of their home according to their own schedule

How and when to apply?

Admission requirements may vary depending upon the level and school you want to enroll in. In most universities, you’ll be required to complete an online application form. Before you apply, you need to make sure that you fulfill all the prerequisites. For instance, in order to apply for a Bachelor in Criminal Justice degree program, you should hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and submit all official documents such as transcripts, and certificates. Universities may also require you to submit standardized test scores and pay an application fee.

A:The criminal justice degree programs comprise of various topics that make up a comprehensive curriculum. Some of the major topics studied in this degree program include criminal law, history and philosophy of justice, forensics, statistics, American constitutional law, judiciary system, and forensic technologies.

Q:Name a few jobs that can be pursued with Online Criminal Justice Programs and degrees?

A:Individuals who complete programs or degrees in the field of criminal justice can begin professional careers. There are a range of jobs that can be pursued in various government and private agencies such as in the court system, attorney general offices, narcotics bureau, police department, juvenile justice department, customs agency, department of homeland security, immigration and veteran’s affairs, and many more.

Q:What is the significance of the Criminal Justice program online?

A:Online Criminal Justice programs allow students to be able to pursue work opportunities during day time and complete their education after office timings from the ease of home. Online Criminal Justice programs also offer students the flexibility of choosing their own pace. Study only as much as they can absorb at a time. These degree programs also allow applicants to save travel time and costs. Online programs are also considered comparatively cheaper.

Q:Which are the shortest criminal justice classes I can take online?

A:The shortest Criminal Justice classes offered online consist of the Certificate in Criminal Justice Administration. It is a one year program traditionally speaking. However, it can also be completed in less than one year if it is opted in the online program. Since online programs are self-paced, students can take as long or less time as they see fit.

Q:To get good jobs with a Criminal Justice degree, do I need to have knowledge of English Composition?

A:Yes. To find good Jobs with a Criminal Justice degree you do need to present a strong understanding of English Composition. In fact, most of the degree programs in this field already have a 3 credits worth course on it which allows you to learn the skills for critical thinking, proofreading and composing the reports, techniques for organized writing, short essays and also writing the research papers.

Q:What is taught in a general Criminal Justice degree?

A:A general Criminal Justice degree is often referred to as the Bachelor in Criminal Justice. Since the bachelor's degree is an undergraduate program, students are taught the background and theories of criminal justice in general comprehensively. It is beyond the undergrad level that students can pick an area of specialization and concentrate there.

Q:As I read about the branches of criminal justice, there was highlight on torts. Can you please tell me of the contents of a course on Torts?

A:All of the branches of Criminal Justice do have substantial study of Torts. Torts is a primary course in all of the relevant programs and is of over 4 credits in total. This course focuses on understanding the violent world of torts and understanding the background to deaths, casualties, injuries, collisions, explosions as well as mishaps. International torts as well as civil wrongs are also extensively studied in this course.

Q:What are the contents of the course on College Mathematics in the best criminal justice programs?

A:The Best Criminal Justice Programs in United States have dedicated courses on College Mathematics. This course has been designed to provide students with substantial understanding of the basic levels of mathematics that also includes the manipulation of the whole numbers. Students are also highlighted on the principles of geometry along with hands on experience.

Q:Searching for criminal justice for kids mentioned a course in juvenile justice. What is included in this course?

A:Course on juvenile justice would be mentioned when searching for criminal justice for kids. This course is worth 3 credit hours and deals with the history and development of the juvenile system. This course also guides the student in social, psychological, environmental and political aspects of the juvenile system. There are a number of online institutions offering this course on our website, prospective students are advised to have a look.

Q:What are the contents of the course on Beginning English Writing in the Accredited Criminal Justice programs?

A:The Accredited Criminal Justice Programs in the United States have dedicated course on Beginning English Writing. This course is worth 2 credits in total and is designed to provide students with ample understanding of the concepts and understanding needed to improve English and get better at writing it. Students are also highlighted on the proper hands on experience.

Q:While searching for Criminal Justice programs online, I got to know about Principles of Security Administration course. Can you tell me more about it?

A:It is very common to come across the reference of various courses and programs relevant to the field while going through search like Criminal Justice programs online. Principles of Security Administration course is included in various programs related to Criminal Justice. In this course the students are taught the fundamentals of security administration and related tasks.

Q:As I went through the top online criminal justice programs, there was mention of the course on Business Analysis. What are the contents of this course?

A:It is common to get to read about the course on Business Analysis while going through the Top Online Criminal Justice Programs. This course usually is worth 2 credits in total. It is designed to provide students with ample understanding of the various concepts of algebra and how these can be used in improving the business setup of an organization or a company.

Q:What are some of the basic courses taught in the criminal justice degree program?

A:In today's world professionals with a degree in criminal justice are highly sought after by crime fighting government agencies or private agencies performing law enforcement duties in the international arena. The subjects taught in these degree programs prove to be very helpful for professionals in their careers ahead. Some of these subjects are: Criminal justice, Terrorism, Law enforcement, Judicial Process, Multicultural issues in criminal justice and Victimology to name a few.

Q:As I was looking at the curriculum of criminal justice degrees, I came across a course criminal behavior. Can you tell me about this subject?

A:Criminal justice degrees comprise of numerous subjects that provide students with in depth information about the field. Criminal behavior is one of the major areas of study in these programs. This subject focuses on criminal behavior typologies, psychological issues related to criminality, and career criminals. These programs can be earned online as well.

Q:Degrees in criminal justice are offered at which levels of post-secondary education?

A:Degrees in criminal justice are offered at levels of post-secondary education. Students who have just finished high school can enroll in an associate degree in criminal justice or a bachelor degree in criminal justice. On the other hand, graduate programs such as a master's degree in criminal justice pr a doctorate degree in criminal justice can also be earned.

Q:Tell me about the degrees available in criminal justice program?

A:Criminal justice degree programs have gained popularity since 9/11 when national security became the focus of everyday life. This program offers degrees of different levels, from Bachelors, Masters to even a Masters in arts degree in the same field. It takes about two years to complete each of these degree program, and revolves around teaching students the fundamentals of criminal justice. These skills are necessary whether the student is pursuing a degree focusing on liberal arts or sciences to a certain extent.

Q:What are my options when it comes to criminal justice degree programs?

A:If you want a degree in criminal justice there are plenty of options that you can explore. If you are a high school graduate you can look for a bachelor's or an associate degree which takes four and two years respectively. Advanced degree options include a master's and doctoral degree.

Q:What to do with a criminal justice degree?

A:With a criminal justice degree you can look for jobs in law enforcement agencies. The position you get would depend on the area of specialization and the level of degree you pursue. Those who have an associate or a bachelor degree can get entry level positions as police officers, investigation officers and corrections officer etc.

Q:What careers can you get with a criminal justice degree?

A:With a criminal justice degree you can pursue a career in law enforcement agencies. The degree level can help determine the kind of jobs you can get. People with these degrees can look for jobs in police department, courts, or work in public or private defense agencies. One can also work as a detective. There are many options open for those who take up this career line.

Q:What degrees are similar to criminal justice degree?

A:There are no degree programs similar to criminal justice degrees. Each academic principle is different from another. Criminal justice basically covers all aspects of crime and law, crime prevention, prevention techniques, and law enforcement. The area can be studied at all levels of post-secondary education and also at non-degree level.

Q:If I get a criminal justice degree, can I qualify for the police department?

A:Yes you can qualify for the police department with a criminal justice degree. You must have at least a bachelor degree in criminal justice to become a police officer. Other requirements may include physical training tests and programs. Criminal justice is a brad field and can lead to many careers in the law enforcement sector.

Q:Why is a degree in criminal justice necessary for joining the law enforcement sector?

A:Criminal justice degree programs are geared towards prepping students for law enforcement careers. The field is vast and gives students a number of career paths to choose from. Criminal justice basically covers topics related to crime prevention, security, control, and law. If you want to join the law enforcement sector, you must be fully aware of the crime control techniques and laws.

Q:As I was looking for sources for Criminal Justice degree, I came across career opportunities that are well paying. Can you tell me more about this?

A:Criminal justice degrees will help you prepare for careers in the law enforcement sector. You can work in all kinds of departments such as the police, homeland security, border patrol, correction, and more. The income level will vary from job to job and will depend upon other actors such as qualifications training, and skill.

A:After completing a criminal justice degree, you can work with law enforcement agencies which are divided into local law enforcement and federal law enforcement agencies. You can also work in various court systems and also find work in the private sector. With an accredited criminal justice degree, you have the option of aspiring to different job titles.

A:With a criminal justice degree, you can pursue different kinds of jobs in the law enforcement sector. Many students opt for careers as police officers and homeland security officers. There are also other major occupations in criminal justice such as the following: probations officer, border patrol officer, corrections officer, and more.

Q:What can you do with a criminal justice degree program?

A:A criminal justice degree gives you a number of career options. You can acquire a certain criminal justice career based on factors like education level, specialization area, accreditation, and experience. You can acquire criminal justice positions such as probation officer, police officer, corrections officer, case worker, parole officer, and arbitrator.

Q:Is criminal justice a good major?

A:Criminal justice can be a good major as it opens up a wide variety of career options for you. However, you also need to know your interest and aptitude in the field. Besides, it is important that you acquire quality education in criminal justice, from an accredited program. Accredited programs will enhance your career prospects too.

Q:Can I get information regarding education in this field at a credible criminal justice site?

A:You can conduct a search online to learn about criminal justice education and colleges. If you take a look at our page, you will be able to get plenty of information about this field, and also learn about colleges currently offering degrees. Criminal justice is one of the most popular academic fields offered at associate, bachelor, and masters level.

Q:What information should I get form criminal justice resources before enrolling in any program?

A:There are many web pages ad online resources available that can help you learn about the criminal justice field. It is important that you understand what criminal justice is all about, and what career opportunities you will get with a degree in this area. Law enforcement, investigations, and homeland security are a few of the main departments that seek criminal justice graduates.

Q:How is a criminal justice major useful for me? Can you name a few job opportunities?

A:Criminal justice majors can seek career opportunities in many different departments. This field basically covers criminal law, sentencing procedures, corrections, and policing. Individuals who have a degree in criminal justice can join the police department, homeland security department, and even work in the corrections agency. Take a look at our page for more detail.

Q:Online criminal justice degrees will help me lower costs?

A:Yes, online degree programs will help you manage costs more effectively. This mode of learning has proved to be cost-friendly in many ways. You can cut down on expenses related to travelling and textbooks. All you will need is a computer and an internet connection to study. Online programs are gaining popularity fast due to the many benefits and advantages.

Q:Is the curriculum of a criminal justice online degree the same as a campus based criminal justice degree?

A:The curriculum of online and campus based degrees in criminal justice is the same. It is only the mode of learning that is different. Instead of having to travel to college based classes every day, students can study from the comfort of their home with convenience. The curriculum will cover many subjects such as law enforcement, criminal law, investigations, and criminology.

Q:What are the main criminal justice degrees online?

A:The availability of online criminal justice programs will vary from place to place. Typically, students will be able to find criminal justice degrees at associate, bachelor, and masters level. Apart from these, many institutes are offering online certifications in criminal justice. You must have a computer and an internet connection to enroll in an online program.

Q:Is a criminal justice degree online worth my time?

A:Whether earning a degree is worth your time or not will depend upon your preference, willingness to work hard, and interest. Criminal justice is one of the most popularly pursued fields in college. You can prepare for a wide range of career opportunities in law enforcement, homeland security, law, and even the border patrol agency.

Q:Can a criminal justice degree guide me to become a police detective later on?

A:Yes, you can pursue a career as a police detective after completing an accredited degree in criminal justice and meeting other requirements such as necessary trainings and fitness tests. Police detectives are required to interview suspects, gather relevant evidence, investigate criminals, and testify in courts. The median annual pay for police detectives was $56,980 in May 2012 according to BLS.

Q:Will criminal justice degrees guide me to be a criminologist?

A:Yes, you can pursue a career as a criminologist after completing an accredited degree in criminal justice. Criminologists are responsible for working in collaboration with other criminal justice professionals and providing valuable insights into criminal behavior. According to BLS, the median annual pay of criminologists in May 2012 was $74,960.

Q:After criminal justice classes online, what career can I pursue?

A:With an accredited degree in criminal justice, individuals can hope to pursue viable careers within the fields of law enforcement, homeland security, incarceration, criminal investigation, rehabilitation as well as criminal courts. Each career would have its own requirements of relevant education, skill and experience. Associate, bachelor and master's degree programs in criminal justice are offered by many accredited schools.

Q:Can you tell me about online schools with best associate criminal justice programs?

A:Many accredited schools and colleges offer online associate degrees in criminal justice, which can usually be completed in two years. The course structures are quite flexible with a mix of video courses, online discussion boards, readings, and periodic live chats used among other forms of teaching. These programs are also generally more affordable than on campus programs.

Q:Why is it important to select an accredited criminal justice degree?

A:If you are looking for a criminal justice program, a major factor to consider is the accreditation of a criminal justice degree. Accreditation indicates that the program has met the quality standards set by the relevant accreditation agency. Accreditation helps students to acquire quality education and have a secure career.

Q:How can I perform well in online criminal justice degrees?

A:If you wish to perform well in an online criminal justice degree, you will need consistency and self management. Although online programs are convenient and flexible, they require greater responsibility on your part. You must attend lectures regularly, participate in class discussions, turn in assignments on time, and have a proper study schedule that you can easily follow.

Q:What will I learn in an online criminal justice degree?

A:In a criminal justice degree online, you will learn about the dynamic criminal justice system. The course will cover areas such as criminal law, criminology, law enforcement, criminal court procedures, and more. The coursework is covered online through online lectures, videos, classroom conferencing, and tutorials. Take a look at our page for more information.

Q:What is the Criminal Justice Degree Hub?

A:The criminal justice degree hub is a website that serves as a complete knowledge source for all degrees related to criminal justice. It gives insight into the criminal justice basics as well as higher education options of the degree. The site also gives a unique perspective onto the careers in criminal justice for graduates of the program.

Q:Can I be an FBI agent after Criminal Justice Education? What do they do?

A:Upon finishing your Criminal Justice Education, if you're ambitious, smart, have a college degree and are ready to serve your country then a job with the CIA is for you. If you're a U.S Citizen and you meet the background check and qualifications then you can apply for a job with the CIA.

Q:How long does it take to get Criminal Justice degree?

A:The duration of a criminal justice degree will depend upon which level of post-secondary education you wish to pursue. An associate degree may take 2 years to complete, a bachelor degree may take 4 years to complete, and a masters degree will take 2 years to complete. But some schools may be offering criminal justice degree programs with shorter durations. If you wish to study at your own pace with no strict time limit, you can enroll in part-time programs.

Q:What is Online Criminal Justice Degree?

A:An online degree in criminal justice is an educational program deigned to equip students with in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system. These programs are offered at associate, bachelor, masters, and certificate level. Benefits of an online degree include: covering the coursework at your own pace, saving travel costs and better time management. Some of the courses covered in a criminal justice degree are criminal law, forensics, statistics, philosophy and history of justice, judiciary system and American constitutional law. The coursework is covered online via videos, tutorials, online lectures, and classroom conferencing.

Q:What is the highest degree in criminal justice programs?

A:The highest degree in criminal justice is a PhD. This is a degree designed for people who are interested in working in research and teaching at the college level or leading a department. A PhD in criminal justice would take around four to seven years to complete, depending on the program you are a part of.

Q:How can I get a degree in criminal justice online?

A:There are numerous colleges that are offering criminal justice degrees in an online or hybrid format. All you need to is a bit of research and look for a program that matches your requirements in terms of tuition fee, schedule flexibility and course content. The coursework is typically completed online via lectures, videos, and classroom conferencing.

Q:Where can you work with a criminal justice degree?

A:With a degree in criminal justice, you might have a large variety of career paths to choose from. You could work as a community development worker, police officer, prison officer, social worker, youth worker or a probation officer. You could also go for jobs such as adult guidance worker, solicitor, social researcher, local government officer or housing manager/officer. The income level would vary from job to job.